How can I determine whether Vanderbilt or Brown would be more affordable after financial aid?

Start by running each college’s official Net Price Calculator with the same current tax, income, asset, household-size, and sibling-in-college information. The calculators are estimates, though, so the final comparison should be based on the written aid offers you receive after applying.

Vanderbilt may be especially worth examining for a student who could plausibly earn a competitive merit scholarship. A Vanderbilt offer can therefore include need-based grants, merit funding, or both; identify each component because merit awards and need-based grants may be treated differently if your family’s finances change.

Brown is the more straightforward comparison for a student expecting to rely mainly on demonstrated-need aid. Brown’s calculator and final award will reflect its own assessment of family resources, which can differ from Vanderbilt’s even when both colleges meet full demonstrated need.

When offers arrive, compare tuition, housing, food, required fees, health insurance if applicable, books, travel, and personal expenses. Subtract only grants and scholarships to find the amount your family must cover. Keep work-study separate: it is an opportunity to earn wages during the year, not money automatically credited to the bill. Also separate any federal student loan from grants, even if you are willing to borrow it.

If the actual offer does not reflect a recent job loss, unusual medical costs, a change in income, or another documented circumstance, request an aid review from that college with clear supporting records. Compare renewal terms as well, especially whether grants, merit awards, and expected family contributions are likely to remain similar over four years.